Thoughts From the CoffeeTable

Michael

How Sweet It Is!

Thoughts From the Coffee Table: Success is sweet. And even better with buttercream frosting.

I joined CCPA because it seemed like a great networking group with interesting programs, and because when I am not traveling to speak, I sometimes need a reason to leave my home office/dungeon and talk to real people.

This summer I have been so busy I haven’t been able to attend anything. I almost didn’t go yesterday. I owe my publisher my manuscript today. But I forced myself out of jammies and into “real people” clothes and went anyway. I am so glad I did.

Meryl Levitz, the founding member of CCPA and now the CEO of Visit Philadelphia, shared the story of a 40 year journey and the passion to save a dying downtown. Her story of a city in crisis during the rise of shopping malls, was a story repeated across the US, and not all of them fought the battle. But she knew that supporting local businesses would pay off for the city and make it what it is today.

A true gem. A historical destination. A foodie’s paradise. A magnet for thriving business.

I love this city I now call home. I am the recipient of hard work, grit and determination. I sat in a room filled with many who traveled that journey with Meryl.